Easy, inexpensive, and diabetic-friendly — it’s time to ditch the pasta for this heart-healthy substitute.
Bread, soda, candy, and processed foods. These are just a few of the foods to avoid if you’re managing diabetes or trying to lose weight. Fortunately, there are many healthy recipes that won’t make you skimp on flavor, like the spaghetti squash highlighted in this video.
Being overweight or obese is the biggest risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Risk becomes even higher if you carry extra fat around your belly. Because sugary beverages and foods tend to add weight in your center, cutting back on high-sugar items can lower your risk for conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Cutting energy drinks, doughnuts and granola bars are just a few examples.
Finding healthy recipes that you can easily implement in your everyday routine is important for sticking to a lifestyle change. Look for recipes with healthy fats, high-fiber ingredients made from whole grains, high-quality protein, and fresh fruit and vegetables.
Replacing pasta with spaghetti squash is one of our favorite ideas. Spaghetti squash delivers your daily needs for dietary fiber as well as vitamins C and A, potassium and calcium. Low in fat, calories and carbs, spaghetti squash can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar, when eaten regularly. By making the simple substitution in this video, the meal decreased by 50 grams of carbohydrates, compared to the dish prepared with normal pasta.
Mercy Health offers a range of help for those managing or trying to prevent diabetes, heart disease and other health conditions. In addition to registered dietitians, we offer an array of surgical and non-surgical weight loss options, such as meal planning.
Visit your primary care physician today to learn how you can best take control of your health. If you need a primary care physician, visit mercy.com or call 513-952-5000 today.
